The People of Lindy Focus

Nina Gilkenson.  Lindy Hopper. Belly dancer. Hair-removal Laser Technician. The mysterious figure that is known only as "Nina" (and sometimes "Naomi") has many titles from prestigious dance competitions. But that's only a small part of her accomplishments. For instance, she can swivel in midair. She can simultaneously create vintage-style dresses and then destroy them while dancing. She can make 12-minute biscuits in 10 minutes. She writes upbeat musical theatre involving funeral homes. And last, but not least, she is a part of the award-winning Lindy Hop team the Silver Shadows, which sounds like it's a group of super heroes. And that's what she is. A Super Hero--one whose main super power is doing swivels in midair. And one day, they might save the world. Until then, she lives in Washington D.C. and falls down a lot.

Nina currently resides in Baltimore, MD.

Nina is also a co-organizer of The International Lindy Hop Championships, which happens next August 19-22, 2010.

Andy Reid.  Andy Reid is one of the most well known and influential Lindy Hop dancers out there. Since he started dancing in the late nineties, Andy has left an indelible mark on the dance scene. Andy's style is a balance of the refined and the eccentric, and his soulful proficiency with rhythm and partnering make his dancing rich and inspiring to watch and experience.

He has performed and taught all over the world including Korea, Australia, Japan and all over Europe. He is a founding member of Silver Shadows, which is undoubtedly one of the most influential dance teams currently. He is also a member of the highly influential troupe Minnie's Moochers. Finally, Andy is also a founding member of Mad Dog!, a Lindy Hop Crew who is infamous within the Lindy community for some reason.

Andy also holds a variety of regional, national and international competition titles.

Andy currently resides in New Orleans, LA.

Kevin St. Laurent.  Kevin is internationally recognized for his energy and innovation as a Lindy Hop dancer, instructor, performer and choreographer. Over the past decade, Kevin has performed and taught swing dance around the world, across North America, South America, Europe, Asia and Australia. He holds many major competition titles, and has been a World Lindy Hop Champion, American Lindy Hop Champion, Ultimate Lindy Hop Showdown Champion and US Open Swing Dance Champion many times over.

His expertise is sought after by both amateur and professional dancers world-wide. Known for his creativity and innovation on the floor, this stems from his command of partner connection and musicality. Admired for his spectacular slides, spins, and high-flying airsteps, he is also a favourite on the social dance-floor.

With Jo Hoffberg:

Kevin and Jo bring a fresh edge to Lindy Hop with inventive aerials, musical routines and high speed dancing. They began their partnership in 2007 and are founding members of the Vintage Jazz Dance Troupe, The Killer Dillers. Together they hold titles at the International Lindy Hop Championships, American Lindy Hop Championship, the Ultimate Lindy Hop Showdown, Camp Hollywood and Camp Jitterbug. Since 2000, their professional careers have taken them to over 22 countries on five continents including North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. With clear and humorous instruction, these two creative and versatile dancers will entertain, inspire and help you become the best dancer you can be.

Jo Hoffberg.  Although Jo Hoffberg calls California her home, she spends most of the year traveling with her dance partner Kevin St. Laurent. She holds 1st place titles from the US Open, Canadian Swing Championships, Camp Hollywood, American Lindy Hop Championships, Ultimate Lindy Hop Showdown and the International Lindy Hop Championships. Her first international working experience was in Japan working for Universal Studios, and since then she has taught in the US, Asia, Australia, South America, Western and Eastern Europe. Currently performing with The Killer Dillers, she is thrilled at the idea of new costumes. She is a passionate and avid dancer, instructor and competitor.

With Kevin St Laurent:

Kevin and Jo bring a fresh edge to Lindy Hop with inventive aerials, musical routines and high speed dancing. They began their partnership in 2007 and are founding members of the Vintage Jazz Dance Troupe, The Killer Dillers. Together they hold titles at the International Lindy Hop Championships, American Lindy Hop Championship, the Ultimate Lindy Hop Showdown, Camp Hollywood and Camp Jitterbug. Since 2000, their professional careers have taken them to over 22 countries on five continents including North America, South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. With clear and humorous instruction, these two creative and versatile dancers will entertain, inspire and help you become the best dancer you can be.

Max Pitruzzella.  Max is originally from Montpellier France but he moved to Montreal in September 2006. The art of swing dancing is how he makes his living, teaching at Studio 88-SWING in Montreal, performing for the SAF Entertainment Group and also teaching and competing around the world . He is passionate about sharing his understanding of all the details that create a good connection between partners and give the most energy to the Lindy Hop. He is dedicated to spread the passion of swing all over the world, pursuing Frankie Manning's vision.

Max has a very long list of achievements in competition. Lately, he won 1st place in the Showcase division of the International Lindy Hop Championships and he also won the Hellzapoppin contest at Frankie95 last May, with his partner Annie Trudeau.

Max was a part of the recreation of the famous Hellzapoppin' dance scene during the Frankie95 event and he also worked as a choreographer in the new Cirque du Soleil show 'Elvis: City Center', in Las Vegas.

Annie Trudeau.  Annie is an former competition gymnast. She is a co-founder and co-owner of Studio 88 Swing in Montreal (Canada) where she has taught swing since 2001. As the artistic director, she also manages and dances in the Montreal Swinging Air Force dance performance troupe, which has been 2008 Team Divisions Champions of the Canadian and American Championships.

She is passionate and enthusiastic as a swing dancer, teacher and competitor. Her style joins dynamism and power with a subtleness that is very feminine.

Annie won many titles in the international Lindy Hop competition circuit. Lately, she won 1st place in the Showcase division of the International Lindy Hop Championships and she also won the Hellzapoppin contest at Frankie95 last May, with her partner Max Pitruzzella. She is also a part of the Ninjammerz team, an International Lindy Hop performance troupe.

Annie was a part of the recreation of the famous Hellzapoppin' dance scene during the Frankie95 event and she also worked as a coach and choreographer in the new Cirque du Soleil show 'Elvis: City Center', in Las Vegas.

Juan Villafane.  Juan hails from Buenos Aires, Argentina and has been a leading proponent in the revival of vintage jazz dances in South America. Juan brings to The Killer Dillers a wealth of talent, known internationally for his stylish Lindy Hop, Charleston, Vintage Jazz, softshoe Tap, Cane and Acrobatics. His background in gymnastics and martial arts strongly influence his dancing, giving him a unique perspective on body movement and awareness, and a distinct - and often spectacular - personal style. Known for his high-flying aerials and eye-catching slides, Juan is a consummate performer and a creative dancer.

Juan holds first place titles at the International Lindy Hop Championships, National Jitterbug Championships, Canadian Swing Championships and other competitions internationally. He has performed in Sweden, Italy, Germany, Ireland, Spain, France, Czech Republic, UK, Canada, USA and Argentina. With his dance partner Sharon Davis, he has performed with renowned Swedish swing dance company The Harlem Hot Shots, and has taught Lindy Hop across the globe.

Sharon Davis.  Sharon originally hails from Perth in Western Australia, and is today an award-winning Lindy Hopper and Charleston champion, well-known in the international dance community. She is known for her passion for the jazz age, and her dedication to the history of vernacular jazz dances and the music they evolved to. In Lindy Hop, 1920s Charleston and Blues Dance, she is admired for her unique and feminine style, and vibrant personality that shines through her dancing.

She has performed in Sweden, Italy, Germany, Ireland, Spain, France, Czech Republic, UK, Canada, USA, Australia and New Zealand. With her dance partner Juan Villafane of Argentina, she has performed with renowned Swedish swing dance company The Harlem Hot Shots, and has taught Lindy Hop across the globe.

Sharon holds 1st place titles in Lindy Hop and solo Charleston at the International Lindy Hop Championships, Ultimate Lindy Hop Showdown, Canadian Swing Championships, National Jitterbug Championships and Camp Jitterbug, and has claimed numerous other awards in Australia and internationally.

Sharon is also a founder of Australian burlesque troupe Sugar Blue Burlesque, with which she has delighted audiences with her graceful feather fan dances and sassy showgirl antics, in Australia and around the world.

Mike Faltesek.  Mike Faltesek brings to the dance floor an incredibly diverse social and performance dance talent that includes not only Lindy Hop but also Cakewalk, Black Bottom, Traditional Jazz, Tap, Charleston, Breakaway, Balboa, Big Apple, Blues and many other Authentic Jazz dances.

Mike has been dancing for well over a decade, in that time he has traveled to instruct, compete, and perform internationally. From Harlem to Los Angeles and all throughout Europe. Mike is well known for his charismatic personality, approachability and passion for the essence of Authentic Jazz dance and music. He possesses an enthusiastic ability to convey ideas and movements explicitly, making him a popular instructor wherever he goes. He teaches workshops internationally, each time leaving a lasting impression on his students.

Mike's main source of inspiration are the greats of yesteryear. Dancers and performers like Whitey's Lindy Hoppers, the Nicholas Brothers, Bill "Bojangles" Robinson, John Bubbles, Earl "Snakehips" Tucker, and the Berry Brothers.

Mike has done a two year residency in Sweden as a member of the world's foremost Jazz Dance Company, The Harlem Hot Shots. He has since moved back to the states and can be found wherever people love swing music.

Casey Schneider.  Casey's love of swing dancing began in 1998. Whether social dancing, teaching, or performing, Casey is inspired by the playful spirit of traditional jazz dances and in "raising her voice" as a female dancer. In her teaching, she focuses on developing solid technique and partnering skills as the foundation for developing one's style and sense of musicality. Casey also enjoys competing, with placements or wins at regional and national competitions. She frequently performs with and dabbles in a variety of dance forms with Sister Kate, an all-girl performance group.

Nathan Bugh.  With his expertise in Lindy Hop, Charleston, and Tap, Nathan Bugh brings the Swing Era to vivid life. Bugh uses sensational rhythms and intricate footwork to create multilayered performances that can be appreciated both visually and musically. Nathan holds a number of US competition titles in Lindy Hop, Charleston, and Cabaret Performance. He earned his bachelor's degree in music from Oklahoma City University and his master's degree from The Juilliard School.

Nathan performed on FoxNC's "Fox and Friends Christmas" with George Gee and cast members from "Sleigh Bell Swing." He danced Lindy Hop in Noemi LaFrance's site-specific odyssey, "Agora II." He also performed with the Vanaver Caravan at the Rudolstadt Festival in Germany and in a televised concert in the Redlands, California. He has danced in concert with the Tulsa Philharmonic Orchestra, and he is part of regularly featured acts at the Ulster Performing Arts Center's "Festival of Dance," the Rainforest Alliance Annual Gala, and Mohonk Mountain House resort. At the landmark Frankie 95? memorial dance festival, Nathan, with the Killer Dillers, was among the handful of performers to appear before 2,000 Swing dancers from around the globe.

Evita Arce.  Evita Arce is a Swing dance star, known internationally for her endless energy, high-flying aerials, and dynamic jazz movement. Whether she's on stage or leading a class, her vibrant persona inspires on-lookers to dance and live in the moment.

Evita played the feature Lindy Hop role in the Broadway musical "SWING!" on the 2008 Japan tour, at The California Music Circus, and at The Pittsburgh Civic Light Opera. Evita also choreographed and danced for Wynton Marsalis and The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra at The Kennedy Center in DC celebrating MLK and President Obama's inauguration. Television appearances have popped up frequently since Evita, with partner Michael Jagger, advanced to finals in Las Vegas on FOX's So You Think You Can Dance -- the only Lindy Hop couple to do so. Evita choreographed for the NY Times Square production, "Sleigh Bells Swing," with George Gee's Orchestra at the Edision Ballroom.

Other exciting performances have included The Edinborough Jazz Festival in Scotland with Ryan Francois' company Swing Extreme, The Rudolstadt Festival in Germany with the Vanaver Caravan, a Latin and Ballroom series with Tango y Mas, and numerous shows at top venues in New York City including the Rose Theater, The Rainbow Room, The Waldorf Astoria, The Gramercy National Arts Club and The Plaza at Lincoln Center.

Michael Jagger.  (With Evita Arce) Evita and Michael, full time dancers in NYC, bring an exuberant energy and joy to every project, whether it's teaching classes worldwide or performing in renown theaters. Their combined resumes span the globe from Dubai to the UK, Sweden to Australia! Evita and Michael were the featured Lindy Hop couple in the 2008 Japan Broadway tour of SWING! They have performed at The Rose Theatre and The Kennedy Center with Wynton Marsalis and The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra. Commercials and other television appearances have popped up frequently for Evita and Michael since they advanced to finals in Las Vegas on season 3 of FOX's So You Think You Can Dance -- the only Lindy Hop couple to do so.

Thanks to Ryan Francois & Jenny Thomas, in 2003, Evita and Michael were introduced to each other while working with Ryan's company in Los Angeles. Since then, Evita and Michael have been members of Swing Xtreme and have performed at The Edinburgh Jazz Festival, Camp Savoy, and at the Lyric Theater in the West End of London.

Michael and Evita have won awards at several national Swing events, most notably their 1st place wins in the Cabaret Divisions at ALHC and ILHC. Michael and Evita are recognized for their ability to combine technical feats with phenomenal dancing and theatrical storytelling.

Currently, the two teach regular classes at Dance Manhattan and continue to travel the world. As teachers, Michael and Evita emphasize anatomy and efficient use of the body. Connecting movements and clearly projecting direction help create their lead and follow technique. Above all other descriptions, one will surely say that Michael and Evita are inspiring to watch and a possess a warm welcome to any student of Lindy Hop.

Todd Yannacone.  Todd Yannacone is one of the most recognizable names on the swing dancing circuit today. He has won countless championship titles from the most prestigious competitions around - The American Lindy Hop Championships, The Ultimate Lindy Hop Showdown, The U.S. Open Swing Dance Championships, The National Jitterbug Championships, The Rhythmic Arts Festival, Lone Star Championships - to name just a few. Todd has been nominated for induction into the California Swing Dance Hall of Fame, and has been interviewed for articles by Swing Dancer Magazine as well as various other publications. He teaches vernacular jazz, balboa, lindy hop, and other vintage swing dances both locally and internationally, and loves spreading his passion for social dancing. He has been a featured instructor, performer, and judge at camps, workshops, and competitions the world over - from the legendary Herrang Dance Camp in Sweden to Asia, across North America, all over Europe, and everywhere in between. He specializes in connection and musicality, which is apparent every time he steps on the dance floor. He has worked with dance and music legends alike, and frequently can be found performing and competing with the acclaimed dance troupe to which he belongs, the Silver Shadows.

Nikki Marvin.  Nikki Marvin is a woman of many talents. Wife, mother, and ATOMIC Ballroom owner by day, Champion Lindy Hopper by night. Nikki travels the county teaching, performing and competing with her partner Mikey Pedroza. Together they hold winnings from: National Jitterbug Championships, US Open Swing Dance Championships, Boston Tea Party, Camp Jitterbug, Swing in the Colony, Lindy and Party Weekend, Rhythmic Arts Festival, Reno Dance Sensation, California Girl Jam and may other local competitions. In 2007, Nikki was a featured performer on ABC's hit show Dancing with the Stars. Nikki is also a prominent member of one of the largest Swing Dance scenes in the country. She is an organizer of the Orange County Swing Dance Club, 24 Hour Cancer Dance-a-thon, Inspiration Weekend, and founding member of the all female dance troupe the ATOMIC Cherry Bombs.

Mikey Pedroza.  Since 1998, Mikey Pedroza has taken his perfect blend of ethereal grace and classic style to every performance, competition and instructional event through out the United States and the world. Coming out of the mean, but clean, streets of the Orange County, California, Mikey has earned acclaim for his hard edged, but playful, style of Lindy Hop & Classic Jazz Dance. Mikey's passion for Lindy Hop can be seen on every social dance floor he walks on. Dancing every song to the fullest ability of his heart & soul.

He brings that same fantastic energy to his classes while focusing on the classic jazz dancing look matched with a great technical feel. Mikey's teaching focuses on lead and follow techniques in every sense of those words. With focal points on connection, body leading, movement, and frame. Now he would like to share his unique yet classic style with you. And hopes that you will be able to feel for this American art form as much as he does.

A strong dedication to the understanding and preservation of the classic American made Jazz dances, is what drives him to continue learning these Swing Dances that include: Charleston, Lindy Hop, Balboa, Slow Dancing (or Blues Dancing) and Classic, Solo Jazz Dance.

Some dancing credits include: Ultimate Lindy Hop Showdown, Reno Dance Sensation, Boston Tea Party, American Lindy Hop Championships, US Open, International Lindy Hop Championships, Camp Swing It, Good Night Sweet Heart, Lone Star Championships, Mid West Lindy Fest, Southwest Lindy Fest, and Camp Jitterbug. Mikey has also taught at many national, swing dance, instructional weekends. As well as competed and won many national level competitions in such places as: Los Angeles, Cleveland, Nashville, Seattle, Denver, Hawaii, Minneapolis, New York, Stamford, Boston, Houston, Austin, Washington D.C., and Phoenix.

Carla Heiney.  Among many of her accomplishments, Carla has choreographed for Fox's hit T.V. show, "So You Think You Can Dance" season 6 creating a routine for contestants Ryan & Ellenore. She is also the 2008 Camp Jitterbug Champion, Canadian Swing Dance Champion & International Lindy Hop Champion. She is also the 2007 National Jitterbug Champion, 2007 American Lindy Hop Champion, & 2006 US Open Showcase Champion. She has also won the US Open Lindy Showcase division with in 2001, 2002, 2004 and the US Open Strictly Lindy division in 2003. She is a 6 time American Lindy Hop Champion and the 2005 World Lindy Hop Champion in the Improvisational division.

She has worked with great artists such as Aretha Franklin, Jeff Tyzik, B.B. King, Erich Kunzel, Nell Carter, and Rita Moreno. She has had the wonderful opportunity to dance at prestigious places such Carnegie Hall & the Kennedy Center as well. She has appeared on ABC's revival of the TV show "Dance Fever" in 2003 and was a featured dancer using Motion Capture technology in the 2004 Feature Film "The Polar Express" in 2004. Carla will also be featured in the upcoming 2008 movie "Love and Dancing."

Why does Carla love Lindy Hop? The music & the fiery, yet playful passion in the dance. The juxtaposition of athleticism & elegance that can be found within a 3 minute dance.

Zack Richard.  (With Maryse Lebeau) Zack and Maryse hail from Montreal, Canada, where they founded the Swing ConneXion Studios in 2005. Fun-filled and energetic teachers, they always thrive to get every single student to have a good time, all the while learning valuable lessons about dancing and life (actual life results may vary). Their love of dancing has lead them to teach as staple instructors in many places including Australia, Germany, France, England and, of course, the U.S. and Canada. Their approach of dance, and Lindy Hop in particular, is fun and free-form despite their technical prowess, and leave a great place for improvisation, communication between partners and follower input. Most of all though, they love to watch in a student's eyes the cloud of confusion make place for the glitter of hope, and finally the joy of understanding.

One of the most versatile social and competition couples around, they have won numerous prizes in Lindy Hop, Charleston, Balboa, Collegiate Shag and Blues, and are most notably five times Canadian Showcase Champions. Recently, they have placed in a slew of competitions both in Lindy Hop and Balboa, most notably taking both the Balboa and Open Showcase division at Camp Hollywood 2009, a rare feat. Their team Swing ConneXion is both Canadian Swing AND American Lindy Hop Champions 2009.

Happy parents of the six-year old Camelia, who can already do the pancake like it's nobody's business, Maryse and Zack love to spend their free time playing guitar, singing, watching others' misfortunes on Funniest Home Videos, and facebooking with each other in the comfort of their bed.

Maryse Labeau.  (With Zack Richard) Zack and Maryse hail from Montreal, Canada, where they founded the Swing ConneXion Studios in 2005. Fun-filled and energetic teachers, they always thrive to get every single student to have a good time, all the while learning valuable lessons about dancing and life (actual life results may vary). Their love of dancing has lead them to teach as staple instructors in many places including Australia, Germany, France, England and, of course, the U.S. and Canada. Their approach of dance, and Lindy Hop in particular, is fun and free-form despite their technical prowess, and leave a great place for improvisation, communication between partners and follower input. Most of all though, they love to watch in a student's eyes the cloud of confusion make place for the glitter of hope, and finally the joy of understanding.

One of the most versatile social and competition couples around, they have won numerous prizes in Lindy Hop, Charleston, Balboa, Collegiate Shag and Blues, and are most notably five times Canadian Showcase Champions. Recently, they have placed in a slew of competitions both in Lindy Hop and Balboa, most notably taking both the Balboa and Open Showcase division at Camp Hollywood 2009, a rare feat. Their team Swing ConneXion is both Canadian Swing AND American Lindy Hop Champions 2009.

Happy parents of the six-year old Camelia, who can already do the pancake like it's nobody's business, Maryse and Zack love to spend their free time playing guitar, singing, watching others' misfortunes on Funniest Home Videos, and facebooking with each other in the comfort of their bed.

Jeremy Otth.  (With Laura Keat) Jeremy and Laura united to create this dynamic dance partnership in January of 2006. Since then, they have been accumulating Championship Titles, teaching all around the world, and even performed on ABC's hit TV Show, "Dancing With The Stars." Jeremy and Laura were each individually honored by the California Swing Dance Hall of Fame in 2008!

Jeremy and Laura have earned Championships at many National events such as: National Jitterbug Championships, American Lindy Hop Championships and the US Open to name a few. They won both first place titles at NJC (at Camp Hollywood) in Shag and Pro Balboa in 2008. They took 2nd in the American Classic Balboa Championships at All Balboa Weekend, were 3rd in the Champions Lindy at the International Lindy Hop Championships in 2008, and in 2007 were Fast Dance Lindy Hop Champions at the US Open! They travel to teach all across the United States and around the world both individually and as a couple, including jobs across the US, UK, France, Germany, Sweden, Canada and Japan.

Jeremy and Laura teach regularly in Southern California and combine their interests to bring well-rounded, interesting and entertaining swing dance classes to the floor. Jeremy's focus on style, authentic movement and unique moves along with Laura's passions for styling and musicality using good connection and technique will inspire and elevate dancers at all levels.

Laura Keat.  Laura Keat began her swing dance career in Denver when she joined the Championship Lindy Hop performance team, 23 Skidoo! She immediately took off with her dancing and started winning national titles after dancing for a relatively short time. More importantly she quickly developed a passion for the art of Swing Dancing, and will be addicted for life.

Some of the many National titles Laura has earned include: ALHC "Classic" Champion, US Open "Strictly Lindy" and "Fast Dance" Champion, NJC "Balboa" and Collegiate Shag" Champion, Camp Jitterbug "Lindy Hop couples" Champion, NJC "Showcase" 2nd place, ILHC "Showcase" 2nd place, ILHC "Champions Strictly Lindy" 3rd place. Laura was also recently recognized by the California Swing Dance Hall of Fame in the Nova Star category.

Laura loves working with an array of leads to widen her following abilities and to be inspired by their diverse styles and ideas. Her classes emphasize the use of excellent connection and technique to enhance individual style, and maximize room for musicality and rhythmic dance. Laura's passion for teaching compliments her passion for swing dancing itself, bringing a fresh perspective to her classes that is a unique benefit to her students.

Kelly Arsenault.  Kelly Arsenault is a native of Knoxville, Tennessee, and she has been dancing as long as she can remember. As a child she took ballet and jazz, but she was especially drawn to modern dance. At age 11, Kelly joined the Tennessee Children's Dance Ensemble. She was with the modern dance company for 6 years, performing around the globe including Taiwan, Singapore, and Indonesia.

Kelly attended the University of Tennessee (Go Vols!) from 1997-2001, during which time she was a member of the UT Dance Company. One highlight from those days was being chosen to perform with the company at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC in 1998. Her time in college opened her eyes to a variety of modern dance styles and techniques including Graham, Horton, and Limon. Even after graduating, Kelly came back to perform with UTDC and she was commissioned to choreograph a piece for the company in 2003.

Following college Kelly joined Circle Modern Dance Company for which she was a dancer and choreographer. She also joined the Knoxville Swing Dance Association and took workshops whenever she had the chance. Finally in 2003, Kelly decided to bite the bullet and pursue her dance dreams in New York.

During her four-year residency in NY, Kelly joined two modern dance companies: Von Ussar Danceworks and MAD About Dance. She was also fortunate enough to meet her amazing dance partner Mickey Fortanasce. Mickey and Kelly have taught accross the US and in Europe and have also been featured in dance articles in Time Out New York, The New York Sun and www.priceless.com. Performed freestyle swing demo on Good Day New York and been interviewed and filmed for a story on balboa aired on HDTV.

Kelly continues to pursue her love of dance and teaching in her new home city of Washington, DC.

Mickey Fortanasce.  as a professional Tough Guy, Super Hero and Spelling Bee Champion, finding time for dance was not easy for Mickey Fortanasce, nor was it an accepted activity among his fellow Crime fighters. But having defeated most evil doers in the New York City metropolitan area and having and become bored with their monotonous monologueing coupled with their stubborn refusal to except his superior skill and ability, he made his way down a different path.

In search of more powerful adversary Mickey Fortanasce began dancing THE lindy hop and THE balboa in the Summer of '99. For years he competed and worked tirelessly towards a goal he could neither see nor reach. Battling opponents whose dorkdom surpassed even his own. Completely unprepaired and surrounded by people who probably wanted to kick his ass, Mickey was certain he'd found his way back to high school.

It wasn't until 2004 Mickey while walking the dark and dusted streets of New York that Mickey bore witness to an freak accident when a Mac truck collided with a two men carrying a large pain of glass. At that moment a Vat of glowing green ooze toppled from the truck and onto a unsuspecting super-model. Remembering the well known Vat of ooze to Super Hero ratio, Mickey decided to ask the girl to join him on his quest only to find out later that in fact, she had been given the super human power of Dance Ass Kicking.

Kate Hedin.  Following in the path of her great ancestor, Swedish explorer Sven Hedin, has traveled to greatest unknown regions of following and footwork. She instructed and performed extensively for Cleveland's Get Hep Swing, Atlanta's Big George, and Washington DC's The Jam Cellar. Aside from a love of both social and performance Lindy Hop, she has become most known for her unique and elegant style of Balboa.

The result is a resume full of impressive dance performances. Kate holds 1st place titles in many competitions and Jack and Jills, including The American Classic Balboa Championship (2009), The International Lindy Hop Championships (Balboa, 2008 & 2009), and she has won or placed in many Lindy Hop competitions and Invitational Jack and Jills. As a teacher, Kate is known for not leaving student followers disappointed.

She is proud to have held, along with her friends at Get Hep Swing in Cleveland, the Guiness World Record for longest dance party ever (52 hours, 3 minutes). Her judging is sought by many, her lines desired as far as the Orient. She also climbs trees.

Bobby White.  Bobby has been a devout student of all things swing. Lindy Hop, Balboa, Collegiate Shag, air steps, tricks, vernacular jazz, and choreography are all passions he has been studying since 1998. His solo Charleston and trucking have won great acclaim and awards, and his passion and in-depth study of classic solo dances like Frankie Manning's Big Apple or the Tranky Doo have made him a sought-after instructor on the material. He is always pleased to perform a solo jazz dance piece at events.

His goofy nature and deadpan joking in classes are balanced by his in-depth deconstruction of moves and technique. He has a great love of teaching and hopes to pass along the enormous swing-inspired smiles that make people walk a good distance away from you on the street.

As a writer, his widely acclaimed swing dance articles and essays appear in the infamous Jam Cellar newsletter, Lindy Bloggers, and in event programs across the land. As an emcee, Jack and Jill jokes are his bread and butter. While some people are proud to hold trophies or world records for dance marathons, he is proud of being in possession of a jar of duck (which he won in a Balboa competition in France). His infamous swing dance writings can be read at swungover.wordpress.com.

Adam Speen.  Adam has been dancing Balboa for just three years, studying under many of the prominent instructors worldwide. He challenges himself to improve by competition but mainly enjoys the social aspects of dancing. In the classroom, Adam offers his own experiences and knowledge in order to foster a creative and comfortable learning environment. He believes that social dancing and individual innovation are paramount in a dancer's education.

With Nelle Cherry, he has already competed and won competitions in balboa throughout the country over the last 3 years. Some of these competitions include: 1st place: Balboa Jack and Jill ILHC 2009; Finalist: Pro Balboa at All Balboa Weekend 2009; 1st Place: Strictly Balboa at Rocky Mountain Balboa 2009; 1st Place: Strictly Balboa at the Int'l Lindy Hop Championships 2008; 3rd Place: Eastern Balboa Championships 2008; 6th Place: Pro Balboa at Balboa Rendezvous 2008 and 1st Place: Amateur ACBC All Balboa Weekend 2007.

Abigail Browning.  Beginning in 1998, Abigail Browning fell in love with the grace and athleticism of swing dancing, and has pursued the art and history of Lindy Hop, Balboa, Blues, Solo and Partnered Charleston, Peabody, and Collegiate Shag ever since.

As she teaches, Abigail fosters creativity and musicality for leads and follows through technique, and emphasizes body control through isolation, repetition, and balance while having fun and preserving the historical integrity of the dance.

In addition to teaching, Abigail opened Vintage Rhythm Dance Studio in Nashville, TN in 2006 where she organized events through 2008. As well as teaching and organizing, Abigail is a passionate DJ, having spun at weekly dances in Nashville, TN and Washington, DC and at national events.

Glenn Crytzer and his Syncopators.  Glenn Crytzer and his Syncopators is a jazz band dedicated to the popular music of the 1920's, 1930's and early 1940's. Founded in 2007 by band leader Glenn Crytzer, the group has become a favorite among dancers around the country. The group's repertoire includes songs and arrangements by Benny Goodman, Fats Waller, John Kirby, Jelly Roll Morton, and more, as well as new original tunes composed in the vintage style. The Syncopators have been featured at Camp Jitterbug, the Seattle Lindy Exchange, Hot Mess, the Emerald City Blues Festival, the Savoy Swing Jam, the Century Ballroom Masters of Lindy Hop and Tap, Harlem Nights, and the Killer Diller Ball, and is the house band at Seattle's Historic Century Ballroom.

Find the Syncopators on the web at: www.syncopators.net OR www.syncopators.net/facebook.

Tuba Skinny.  Tuba Skinny is a band that takes its listeners back in time to the jazz and blues music of the nineteen twenties and thirties. The members have been playing together since April 2009.

Tuba Skinny plays traditional Dixieland Jazz and Old Blues songs. They're cousins of Loose Marbles and Baby Soda in NYC. These groups have interchangeable players and it is a joy to witness these youngsters spreading the word about the New Orleans music.

Become a fan of Tuba Skinny on their facebook page

This person has yet to be announced to the world. No doubt the suspense is killing you! We promise to make these announcements very soon, but we also know you trust us to choose awesome talent. While you're waiting, you can sing a little song to yourself, or better yet, make up a dance move. With a slide. Those are cool. Ooh, and while you're up, would you grab me a soda? Thanks.

This person has yet to be announced to the world. No doubt the suspense is killing you! We promise to make these announcements very soon, but we also know you trust us to choose awesome talent. While you're waiting, you can sing a little song to yourself, or better yet, make up a dance move. With a slide. Those are cool. Ooh, and while you're up, would you grab me a soda? Thanks.

This person has yet to be announced to the world. No doubt the suspense is killing you! We promise to make these announcements very soon, but we also know you trust us to choose awesome talent. While you're waiting, you can sing a little song to yourself, or better yet, make up a dance move. With a slide. Those are cool. Ooh, and while you're up, would you grab me a soda? Thanks.

This person has yet to be announced to the world. No doubt the suspense is killing you! We promise to make these announcements very soon, but we also know you trust us to choose awesome talent. While you're waiting, you can sing a little song to yourself, or better yet, make up a dance move. With a slide. Those are cool. Ooh, and while you're up, would you grab me a soda? Thanks.

This person has yet to be announced to the world. No doubt the suspense is killing you! We promise to make these announcements very soon, but we also know you trust us to choose awesome talent. While you're waiting, you can sing a little song to yourself, or better yet, make up a dance move. With a slide. Those are cool. Ooh, and while you're up, would you grab me a soda? Thanks.

This person has yet to be announced to the world. No doubt the suspense is killing you! We promise to make these announcements very soon, but we also know you trust us to choose awesome talent. While you're waiting, you can sing a little song to yourself, or better yet, make up a dance move. With a slide. Those are cool. Ooh, and while you're up, would you grab me a soda? Thanks.

This person has yet to be announced to the world. No doubt the suspense is killing you! We promise to make these announcements very soon, but we also know you trust us to choose awesome talent. While you're waiting, you can sing a little song to yourself, or better yet, make up a dance move. With a slide. Those are cool. Ooh, and while you're up, would you grab me a soda? Thanks.

This person has yet to be announced to the world. No doubt the suspense is killing you! We promise to make these announcements very soon, but we also know you trust us to choose awesome talent. While you're waiting, you can sing a little song to yourself, or better yet, make up a dance move. With a slide. Those are cool. Ooh, and while you're up, would you grab me a soda? Thanks.

This person has yet to be announced to the world. No doubt the suspense is killing you! We promise to make these announcements very soon, but we also know you trust us to choose awesome talent. While you're waiting, you can sing a little song to yourself, or better yet, make up a dance move. With a slide. Those are cool. Ooh, and while you're up, would you grab me a soda? Thanks.

This person has yet to be announced to the world. No doubt the suspense is killing you! We promise to make these announcements very soon, but we also know you trust us to choose awesome talent. While you're waiting, you can sing a little song to yourself, or better yet, make up a dance move. With a slide. Those are cool. Ooh, and while you're up, would you grab me a soda? Thanks.

This person has yet to be announced to the world. No doubt the suspense is killing you! We promise to make these announcements very soon, but we also know you trust us to choose awesome talent. While you're waiting, you can sing a little song to yourself, or better yet, make up a dance move. With a slide. Those are cool. Ooh, and while you're up, would you grab me a soda? Thanks.